Longridge band ‘near miss’ with car: future dates at risk

Rosie Swarbrick

Longridge’s town band will not be performing on public highways again without a risk assessment after a ‘near miss’ at Civic Sunday.

The band’s stipulation for a full risk assesment and a formal road closure notice signed by the local authority is understood to be related to their insurance cover.

The band requires protection by trained personnel against traffic accidents, ie no moving vehicles should be allowed in the vicinity of the band (except for official emergency services vehicles).

Band secretary Fred Little

It throws into doubt appearances at events such as Longridge Field Day.

The issue was discussed at a town council meeting, with councillors saying they would discuss safety at parades again at the next meeting and would be getting in touch with the organisers of Longridge Field Day.

The meeting was told a car nearly collided with Longridge Band at the most recent Civic Sunday parade in Church Street.

Because of the impact on their insurance, the band has said they will not perform on a public highway unless a risk assessment is carried out and a road closure order signed by the local authority is put in place.

Band secretary Fred Little said: “Provided the terms are met, the Longridge Band will continue take part in Street-March engagements as it always has done.

“We must ensure the safety of the band (as far as practicable) and also that we are complying with our insurers’ requirements.”

If the two requirements are not met the band said they will pull out of public events due to safety and insurance reasons.

That may put the band’s regular appearance at Longridge Field Day at risk.

Longridge Mayor Sarah Rainford said: “The safety report is something we are concerned is going to affect Longridge Field Day.”

Mr Little said the band would pull out of a performance even at the last minute if the relevant documents where not produced.